Activation, take two!

My second implant was activated today! After surgery on my left side a month ago, and the slow (much slower this time around) healing process, I was "turned on." I was pleasantly surprised that as bad as everything sounds with the new implant, it's not been disruptive. After the mapping, Becky turned on all circuits, and did a few simple tests. I could recognize the difference between number of syllables ("Hello", "How are you" and "Let's go eat dinner"), but attempting to understand even the simplest sentences was beyond me. We agreed to stick with the BTE (G3) and skip the BWP (body worn processor), using sensitivity with one program louder than the other. Within minutes of setting up the programs, I wanted more umph, so Becky replaced both programs with new ones with more volume.

On the drive home, it seems listening to talk radio KCBS and KGO was easier. The new ear really picks up on high pitched sounds, and glosses over lower frequency ones, which is not surprising, since it took a couple days with the first implant before I got the full spectrum of sound.

So far, I'm pleased; I was expecting to get the "Minnie Mouse on speed" effect and to be bewildered by the difference in input, but I only notice the effect when I turn off my left (older) implant. With both on, the squeakiness is masked, and I'm just more aware of high pitched sounds. Boy, some sounds like keyboard clicking and rustling paper, are just eeeeeech!

I go in for the second mapping in two days.